Panthers LB Beason Ready To Return, Regardless Of Position

CHARLOTTE, N.C.-- Panthers three-time Pro Bowl middle linebacker Jon Beason is anxious to get back on the football field this season, even if that means leaving the position he loves to play.

Beason is recovering well after surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon last September, a devastating injury to a player in top physical condition who hadn't missed a game in his previous four seasons.

He's only been working in individual drills the past three weeks as a precautionary measure, but has been cleared to begin practicing in team drills next week.

If needed, Beason says "I could play four quarters right now."
Where Beason will play is the next question.

Carolina drafted Boston College middle linebacker Luke Kuechly ninth overall, meaning one of them needs to shift to outside linebacker.